This morning I decided to temporarily stop using Google Search after almost 10 years of making daily requests to the world’s most popular search engine.
It isn’t because Google has done anything wrong in particular. Ok, it does feel a little creepy the way it tracks each and every search I do. And Google has developed the bad habit of being a near monopolistic search provider in most markets that it competes in, which doesn’t quite ring true to their “don’t be evil” mantra. Still, as a member of an interactive marketing team that utilises the power of Google every day to drive traffic to our client’s web sites through search engine marketing and optimisation. I think these not so desirable behaviours can be easily explained away.
Even as a regular internet user, Google provides me with mostly relevant search results that I’m satisfied with. It just disappoints me that a company which reinvented the concept of search engines has not continued innovating their core search product as much as I think they could have.
The rise of the social web has meant the way people use the internet has evolved. I need a search engine that will help me discover, interact and organise this new structure of content, networks and conversations. Google currently fails to do this.
Which is why I will be actively using four innovative search engines; Worio, Spezify, CrowdEye and Viewzi as my primary search tools for the next month. I will report back at the end of August here on Two Cents telling the world how I faired without Google Search.
It feels a little like I’m ending a relationship and breaking up with Google but I think it is all for the best.
I would love to know if you are happy with using Google Search or if you think another search engine would ever be able to topple the search behemoth?
Anthony Dever is BCM’s Interactive Strategist
I’ll be very interested to hear how the 4 search engines rate for you Anthony. I’ve recently been trying out Bing for similar reasons. It doesn’t seem to find things as quickly and effectively as Google. I’m still on my ‘Bing trial’ but often find myself flicking back to Google when Bing can’t find something for me. Maybe I’m just used to the Google format?
How do you feel about also extending your break-up to gmail, google reader, google maps and youtube? I can sense the separation anxiety now…
Sure play the field, sew the wild oats, but Google is a seductress.
Anthony, ending any relationship can be difficult, but you have to do what is best for you. I personally could never cut my ties with Google. Over the years they have given me so much, never have i had to endure the words…’Search not found’. And as Scott said, what about gmail, google maps, google images…They are so much more than just a search engine. Take care through this tough time.
Anthony, I too have been playing the field a little. I prefer Bing to any in your kinky selection but, like Paul, sometimes find that Google will do it where the other/s will not. Bing does some clever things with side menus and is way better than Google in presentation of still images and videos. Google a clear winner in mapping and News. I found no speed difference.
But I must say I am worried what Google will do to me if (when) it finds out that I have been searching around.
Anthony, whilst agreeing with Kev, I think Google will turn on the tractor-beam and pull you back into its grasp. I do feel sorry for the other search engines in that this industry requires other players to work so much harder to defeat the “behemoth” that is Google, however why fight it? Google provides so much more than search facilities, but the search function itself provides everything you need.
The sites you mention do have some impressive options and innovative concepts, however personally whenever I arrive at using Google I am usually in a hurry and expect it to find my desired information asap. Perhaps I’m just not ready for the innovation and re-organised method of searching. …yet. Good luck with your break. I’m sure my girlfriend wouldn’t be too impressed at hearing “I’m leaving you for more up-to-date versions, but will be back soon once the novelty has worn off.”
Paul – You are right. I think we have been conditioned to Google’s format but with the web being so richly broad now with valuable information contained in videos, photos, micro-blogs and discussions I think a new information architecture is needed that goes beyond Google’s mostly classic text results display. Also, now that interfaces are so varied (from massive wide screen desktop displays to small netbook or mobile screens) search engines will need to put much more thought into how they can visually deliver the best information for the appropriate screen and location.
Scott – Ok, you got me. It’s not a clean break. I’m still using Gmail, Google Reader, Google Maps, Google Adwords and Google Adsense. Youtube? Mate, that’s so 2006. Vimeo has everything I need: Barack Obama and Stop Motions.
Kev – I will remain strong and resist the urge to “Google it”. Once you change the search toolbar from Google to another engine in the top right of either Firefox or Safari you don’t even feel tempted.
Katie – Thanks for your kind words. Though, I’m finding there are plenty of fish in the sea.
Bill – Bing does nothing for me. It’s a step in the right direction but is a compromise. Though I really admire Microsoft for taking on Google. Early indicators are that they are gaining market share in search and if they can purchase Yahoo’s advertising business then they have the tools to really challenge Google.
Gareth – I’m pretty sure that’s why I’m single.
You should modify your hosts file to make it impossible – just in case you get the urge!
Yikes! That’s a big step Mr Diva! I totally rely on Google products now… especially gmail and google calendar… Perhaps I could get by without google search but not the others… good luck!